CARERS AT WORK
Benefits of Supporting Carers At Work
1 in 9
employees in the workforce is also an unpaid carer
2.65 million
Australians combine paid work with caring responsibilities (Carers Australia, 2023)
51.5% of carers in paid work are working less than they want to, almost double the under-employment rate of other adults (27.5%)Â
DEMOGRAPHICS OF CARERS
Carers are one of the fastest-growing workplace demographics
In Australia, there are an estimated 2.65 million unpaid carers, many of whom are also part of the workforce. With an ageing population and rising disability and mental health needs, the number of employees balancing work and caring responsibilities is only set to increase.
Carers are often in their prime working years, yet too many struggle to stay in employment. Research shows that nearly half of carers reduce their working hours, while many step back from promotions or leave work altogether because they cannot find the flexibility or support they need.
By raising awareness of caring in the workplace and providing carer-friendly policies and training, employers can retain experienced staff, reduce absenteeism, and foster a truly inclusive culture.
CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
Nearly 1 in 8 employees is balancing paid work with unpaid caring responsibilities from supporting children with additional needs, to ageing parents, to partners with chronic illness or disability.
Caring can take a huge toll on people’s lives: emotionally, physically, and financially. Many carers experience stress, exhaustion, social isolation, and reduced wellbeing. Yet, almost half of working carers don’t disclose their situation at work, fearing stigma or negative perceptions.
Creating a workplace culture where carers feel safe to share their circumstances and access support isn’t just good business, it’s a matter of fairness, compassion, and responsibility.
When organisations step up to support carers, they send a clear message: we value people, not just productivity.
LEGAL CASE
Caring responsibilities are recognised under Australian law
Employees with caring responsibilities are protected from discrimination under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and the Sex Discrimination Act 1984 (Cth), which prohibit adverse action or less favourable treatment on the grounds of family or carer responsibilities.
The Carer Recognition Act 2010 (Cth) further acknowledges the role and contribution of carers, while the National Employment Standards (NES) in the Fair Work Act entitle eligible employees to access carer’s leave and request flexible working arrangements.
Failure to accommodate carers can expose employers to unlawful discrimination claims, Fair Work Commission disputes, or reputational damage. By proactively supporting carers at work through policies, training, and culture change, organisations can meet their legal obligations and avoid costly disputes while building a more inclusive and sustainable workplace.
GENDER EQUITY
Caring responsibilities are a major driver of gender inequality at work
Women perform around two-thirds of all unpaid care work in Australia. As a result, many reduce hours, step back from promotions, or exit the workforce entirely. Research shows that carers are far more likely to work part-time or under-employed, limiting career progression and long-term financial security.
This unequal distribution of care contributes directly to the gender pay gap, which widens with age as women’s earning potential stalls while caring responsibilities peak.
By recognising the impact of caring and providing flexible work, supportive policies, and cultural change, organisations can create fairer career pathways and help close the gender equity gap.
Because Carers Deserve Allies Everywhere
Half-day training for workplaces and communities to better recognise, support and empower carers.
Q?
Email everydayalliesproject@gmail.com for more information